Exploring Issues and Challenges Faced by Patients and Family Care Givers Regarding Readiness for Hospital Discharge. A qualitative Study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/HM.10.1.2024.235-246Keywords:
Discharge readiness, tertiary care, nurses' role, discharge planning, qualitative study.Abstract
Introduction: Patients and family care givers must be well-prepared for hospital discharge, yet difficulties still exist in Pakistan's tertiary healthcare settings. In order to find gaps and improve preparation, this study looks into the problems influencing discharge preparedness.
Objective: The objective of this study is to explore issues and challenges faced by Patients and family care givers regarding readiness for hospital discharge:
Methodology: A descriptive qualitative phenomenology study was conducted at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad prevailing over a period of six months, using a purposive sample of 30 participants including patients and family care givers. Data from in-depth interviews were thematically analyzed.
Results: A total of 30 participants were included in the study. Most of the participants were male (66.66%). After thematic analysis, 78 codes were identified. The codes were organized to extract 16 categories and the categories were arranged in four different themes such as “Lack of Facilitation”, “Lack of Involvement in Decision-Making process”, “Communication and Information Gaps”, and “Organizational factors hindering discharge planning”.
Conclusion
The discharge planning process is complex and challenging, with obstacles including time constraints, lack of standardized protocols, and inadequate patient involvement. These challenges can lead to gaps in patient understanding and adherence to post-discharge care, ultimately affecting transition outcomes. Implementing a patient-centered approach with formalized discharge plans and collaborative decision-making can improve patient preparation, nurse effectiveness, and transition outcomes.
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